Perceptions of Student Organization Advisors Regarding Hazing and Antihazing Law

Author

Paul Andrew HermansdorferFollow

Date of Award

2020

Degree Name

Leadership Studies

College

College of Education

Type of Degree

Ed.D.

Document Type

Dissertation

First Advisor

Dr. Teresa Eagle, Committee Chairperson

Second Advisor

Dr. Sherry Early

Third Advisor

Dr. Bob Rubenstein

Abstract

Despite persistent and documented issues regarding hazing, scholarly attention remains limited. A review of the literature revealed the majority of studies focused on student perceptions and behavior. Faculty and staff, specifically student club and organization advisors, should be involved with the prevention of hazing, too, but first there must be an understanding of the perceptions and issues that challenge them. The purpose of this descriptive, cross-sectional, nonexperimental study was to examine student organization advisors’ awareness and perceptions of West Virginia Antihazing Law, awareness of hazing on their campuses, and responses if hazing were to occur. The study was administered to student organization advisors from 18 fouryear colleges and universities in West Virginia. Selected participants included faculty, staff, and volunteers officially registered with the college or university in the role of a club or organization advisor. The sample size was 233 for a response rate of 32.8%. Data indicated the majority of student organization advisors were aware of West Virginia Antihazing Law. Although some student organization advisors believed the law was ineffective in the prevention of hazing, there was evidence suggesting the contrary. Advisors who were not at all aware of West Virginia Antihazing Law were more likely to disagree that prohibited behaviors are hazing. Data further demonstrated a need to address misperceptions; reduce disagreements as to what constitutes hazing; and provide targeted efforts for faculty, staff, and volunteers specifically, including student club and organization advisors.

Subject(s)

Hazing -- Laws and legislation.

Universities and colleges -- Security measures -- West Virginia.

West Virginia Antihazing Law.

Recommended Citation

Hermansdorfer, Paul Andrew, "Perceptions of Student Organization Advisors Regarding Hazing and Antihazing Law" (2020). Theses, Dissertations and Capstones. 1336.
https://mds.marshall.edu/etd/1336